TWO of South Lakeland’s oldest businesses have announced expansion plans which will see the creation of 75 new jobs.

Mardix, the Kendal-based global provider of switchgear and power technologies, is creating 65 new posts across a variety of technical, engineering and support roles, while in Lindale, car dealership Hadwins is seeking 10 new staff in back office, repairs and sales positions.

Mardix, on the Westmorland Business Park, was established in 1966, has a turnover of over £50M and already employs 370 staff in Kendal with branch offices located in Hertfordshire, London and Singapore.

The firm has enjoyed substantial commercial success in recent years through the development of new technologies, market diversification and lucrative international licensing deals.

MORE TOP STORIES:

Hadwins, which employs 115 staff across three sites in South Lakeland, has built a reputation as of one of the UK’s premiere Audi and Volkswagen dealers over the last 40 years and is currently in the process of refurbishing and expanding its new and used car facilities, workshops and showrooms following several successful planning applications.

Lawrence Conway, chief executive of South Lakeland District Council, said: “Between them Mardix and Hadwins have nearly 100 years’ experience of trading in South Lakeland and both have enjoyed sustained growth and expansion despite challenging economic conditions in their respective industries.

“The fact they are now both seeking to employ more skilled and hardworking people from across the region is testament to their commercial resilience, high quality products, and commitment to client service.

“These are exactly the type of qualities that characterise many of our local firms, both big and small, and Invest in South Lakeland will continue to support and promote companies like Mardix and Hadwins as their success means a more prosperous future for all of us who live and work in the area.”

Alexander Bourne, Director for Mardix, said: “We’re delighted to be able to offer a range of new employment opportunities so more people can join our thriving manufacturing business within the idyllic South Lakes region.”

Paul Crewdson, Hadwins’ Head of Business, said: “Hadwins’ on-going expansion will considerably increase our capacity, improve customer experience and give us an opportunity to showcase a much wider range of models across our three sites.

“In addition our continued growth means we are generating employment opportunities across all departments including administration, sales, accounts, customer service, maintenance and logistics."